Murad Correct & Protect Serum Broad Spectrum SPF 45 PA++++ Review

Murad Correct & Protect Serum Broad Spectrum SPF 45 PA++++
6.4
/ 10
Moisturizing
7.9 Humectancy icon Humectancy
5.0 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
0.5Anti-wrinkle icon/ 10
Anti-wrinkle
45
SPF icon
SPF
Review

Does Murad Correct & Protect Serum Broad Spectrum SPF 45 PA++++ Work?

 
According to CreamScan AI's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what Murad Correct & Protect Serum Broad Spectrum SPF 45 PA++++ has to offer:
 
  • Significant moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 6.4 out of 10.
  • Slight anti-wrinkle effect: Murad Correct & Protect Serum Broad Spectrum SPF 45 PA++++ has an anti-wrinkle rating of 0.5 out of 10, so you may expect a positive, although insignificant, effect on wrinkles.
  • High sun protection for extended outdoor activities and exposure.

Key Benefits of Murad Correct & Protect Serum Broad Spectrum SPF 45 PA++++

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using Murad Correct & Protect Serum Broad Spectrum SPF 45 PA++++:
 

Well-Suited Moisturizer for Normal Skin with a Balanced texture, neither too light nor too heavy

According to CreamScan analysis, Murad Correct & Protect Serum Broad Spectrum SPF 45 PA++++ is highly moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 6.4 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Rather humectant. It has a high humectancy of 7.9 out of 10, primarily due to the substantial concentration of Propanediol (est. ≈4.0%), and a moderate occlusivity of 5.0 out of 10, mainly due to the significant content of Dimethicone (est. ≈6.0%) and Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (est. ≈3.0%).

This type of moisturizer is well-suited for people with normal skin who want significant hydration in a formula with a balanced texture - neither too light nor too heavy. It combines a high concentration of humectants with a significant amount of occlusive ingredients to deliver effective dual-action moisturizing for normal skin.

Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the moisturizing rating calculation.

Slight Anti-Wrinkle Efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, Murad Correct & Protect Serum Broad Spectrum SPF 45 PA++++ has a slight anti-wrinkle rating of 0.5 out of 10.

It contains 2 active ingredients with proven anti-wrinkle efficacy:
    • Niacinamide (est. ≈0.3%),
       one of the most effective and well-researched anti-wrinkle ingredients. A clinical study involving 30 participants (Kawada et al.) confirmed that a cream with 4% niacinamide reduced the average depth of wrinkles around the eyes by 9% after 8 weeks of use, compared to a vehicle (the same formulation without niacinamide).
    • Ascorbic Acid (est. ≈0.3%),
       or Vitamin C, a popular ingredient, yet with moderate anti-wrinkle efficacy, as confirmed by a single clinical study involving 20 participants (Humbert et al.). This study showed that a cream with a relatively high concentration of 5% ascorbic acid reduced the average wrinkle depth by 7% after 6 months of use, compared to a vehicle (the same formulation without ascorbic acid).
Among others, Murad Correct & Protect Serum Broad Spectrum SPF 45 PA++++ also contains Retinyl Palmitate, an ingredient often marketed as effective in reducing wrinkles. However, the studies supporting the anti-wrinkle claims of Retinyl Palmitate provide insufficient evidence of its efficacy according to CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards. Therefore, this ingredient does not contribute to the anti-wrinkle rating.
 
Moisturizers, when used regularly, are proven to prevent wrinkle formation and even reduce existing wrinkles. Therefore, this product, like any other moisturizer, can deliver some anti-wrinkle effects through its moisturizing action.
 

Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the anti-wrinkle rating calculation.

High sun protection for extended outdoor activities and exposure

With an SPF of 45, Murad Correct & Protect Serum Broad Spectrum SPF 45 PA++++ provides high sun protection, making it ideal for prolonged outdoor activities such as hiking, gardening, sports, or spending time at the beach.

This level of SPF blocks up to 98% of UVB rays, significantly reducing the risk of sunburn. When formulated as broad-spectrum, it also protects against UVA rays, which penetrate deeper into the skin and contribute to premature aging, hyperpigmentation, and long-term damage.

This level of SPF is recommended for most skin types, including those with moderate sun sensitivity. For individuals with fair or very sensitive skin, or under intense sun exposure, a higher SPF of 50+ is advised.

For optimal protection, choose products labeled broad-spectrum to ensure defense against both UVA rays, which contribute to skin aging and pigmentation, and UVB rays that cause sunburn.

It's important to apply sunscreen generously and reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating to maintain effectiveness.

Please note that this is not a complete list of benefits. We are in the process of enhancing our AI model to incorporate anti-pigmentation, exfoliation and anti-acne ratings.

Pros & Cons of Murad Correct & Protect Serum Broad Spectrum SPF 45 PA++++

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of Murad Correct & Protect Serum Broad Spectrum SPF 45 PA++++ to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

Pros:

  • Well-suited for moisturizing normal skin
  • Balanced texture, neither too light nor too heavy
  • Can enhance the moisturizing efficacy of a skincare routine for dry skin
  • Provides slight anti-wrinkle efficacy
  • Provides high sun protection, ideal for prolonged outdoor activities such as hiking, gardening, or beach outings, and suitable for most skin types.

Cons: 

Ingredients

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
45
17
11
6
4
3
2
1.5
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Est. %
Isododecane
Function:
Origin:
Zinc Oxide
Function:
Origin:
Water
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Propanediol
Function:
Origin:
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Function:
Origin:
Polyglyceryl-6 Polyricinoleate
Function:
Origin:
Polymethylsilsesquioxane/Trimethylsiloxysilicate
Function:
Origin:
C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate
Function:
Origin:
Coco-Caprylate/Caprate
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexyl Palmitate
Function:
Origin:
Polymethylsilsesquioxane
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Tapioca Starch
Function:
Origin:
Polyglyceryl-10 Dioleate
Function:
Origin:
Polyhydroxystearic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Fructooligosaccharides
Function:
Origin:
Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil
Function:
Origin:
Lecithin
Function:
Origin:
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter
Function:
Origin:
Beta Vulgaris (Beet) Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
Hedychium Coronarium Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
Solanum Lycopersicum (Tomato) Fruit Extract
Function:
Origin:
Niacinamide
Function:
Origin:
Squalane
Function:
Origin:
Urea
Function:
Origin:
Yeast Amino Acids
Function:
Origin:
Trehalose
Function:
Origin:
Taurine
Function:
Origin:
Inositol
Function:
Origin:
Betaine
Function:
Origin:
Tocopheryl Acetate
Function:
Origin:
Ascorbic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Retinyl Palmitate
Function:
Origin:
Potassium Lactate
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexylglycerin
Function:
Origin:
Lactic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate
Function:
Origin:
Polysilicone-11
Function:
Origin:
Disteardimonium Hectorite
Function:
Origin:
Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside
Function:
Origin:
Decyl Glucoside
Function:
Origin:
Propylene Carbonate
Function:
Origin:
Caprylyl Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Hexylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Triethoxycaprylylsilane
Function:
Origin:
Chlorphenesin
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:
Iron Oxides (CI 77492)
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
7.9
4
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
9.9
6.0
3.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
6.4
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 7.9 10
7.9
4
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 9.9 20
5.0
6.0
3.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
6.4
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
4
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 7.9 10
7.9
All humectants
7.9
4
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
6
3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 9.9 20
5.0
All occlusives
9.9
6.0
3.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
6 /10 4 0.3 0.4
2.5 /10 5 0.3 0.1
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
0.5
Niacinamide
0.4
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
6 /10
when present at, %
4
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Ascorbic Acid
0.1
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
2.5 /10
when present at, %
5
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Retinyl Palmitate
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Anti-wrinkle rating
0.5
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 1.5 3 No
All antioxidants
1.5
Niacinamide
0.3
Ascorbic Acid
0.3
Beta Vulgaris (Beet) Root Extract
0.3
Solanum Lycopersicum (Tomato) Fruit Extract
0.3
Tocopheryl Acetate
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
0.3
All soothing 0.3 5 No
All soothing
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Isododecane
Est. %45
Function
Origin
IsododecaneAn emollient derived from petroleum with high spreadability. It is often used as a replacement for oils and silicones because it leaves no residue behind on the skin. When a product is labeled as “oil-free” it may contain isododecane instead of heavier oils.
Zinc Oxide
Est. %17
Function
Origin
Zinc OxideA white mineral powder mainly used in skincare as a physical sunscreen. It protects against UVA light that leads to visible signs of aging, including wrinkles and fine lines. Zinc oxide can also be used as a colorant to enhance the whiteness of a product.
Water
Est. %11
Function
Origin
WaterThe most used ingredient in skincare. Its concentration defines the product texture: rich creams may have about 50% of water while a light jelly about 90%. Water doesn’t moisturize the skin by itself and is used in skincare as a solvent for other ingredients.
Dimethicone
Est. %6
Function
Origin
DimethiconeThe most common silicone in skincare. It forms a silky, smooth film on the skin’s surface and can help to prevent water loss. It also aids in wound healing and can treat and soften scars. Dimethicone is considered to be very safe for use.
Propanediol
Est. %4
Function
Origin
PropanediolAn excellent solvent capable of mixing water with normally water-insoluble ingredients. It also functions as a humectant due to its water-loving alcohol groups. Propanediol can control the viscosity of a product by reducing its thickness.
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Est. %3
Function
Origin
Caprylic/Capric TriglycerideA natural occlusive moisturizing and emollient ingredient, it is a blend of glycerin and two fatty acids, caprylic and capric acid. It creates an oil-based protective layer on the skin, thereby preventing water loss.
Polyglyceryl-6 Polyricinoleate
Est. %2
Function
Origin
Polyglyceryl-6 Polyricinoleate
Polymethylsilsesquioxane/Trimethylsiloxysilicate
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
Polymethylsilsesquioxane/Trimethylsiloxysilicate
C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate
Est. %1
Function
Origin
C12-15 Alkyl BenzoateA synthetic emollient ester. It works to improve the appearance of the skin by filling in the microcracks on the surface, thereby making the skin appear softer and smoother. It imparts a lightweight, velvety feel.
Coco-Caprylate/Caprate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Coco-Caprylate/CaprateA naturally-derived emollient ester. It is a blend of caprylates and caprates and, relative to other emollients, is lightweight and dry on the skin. As a result, coco-caprylate/caprate serves as a natural alternative to volatile silicones.
Ethylhexyl Palmitate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ethylhexyl PalmitateA rich emollient without the oily after-feel, making it a popular replacement for mineral oil. It is derived from natural sources such as palm oil and palm kernel oil. Ethylhexyl palmitate is listed as a common comedogenic ingredient by acne.org.
Polymethylsilsesquioxane
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PolymethylsilsesquioxaneA type of spherical powder that functions on a ball-bearing effect in which the tiny microspheres roll around on the skin and create lubricity. Polymethylsilsesquioxane offers extra slip to skincare products and makes the skin feel soft and smooth.
Glycerin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glycerin

The most popular moisturizing ingredient in the world. It is a powerful humectant – cheap yet very effective.

Tapioca Starch
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Tapioca StarchTapioca starch is used to absorb excess oil and provide slip for dry powder formulations.
Polyglyceryl-10 Dioleate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polyglyceryl-10 Dioleate
Polyhydroxystearic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polyhydroxystearic AcidA soft and malleable amber wax naturally derived from vegetable sources. It allows minerals to be very finely dispersed, which can improve SPF, decrease the white cast in sunscreens, and increase the color expression in pigmented products.
Fructooligosaccharides
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
FructooligosaccharidesA derivative a fructose that moisturizes skin by drawing water to the surface of the skin.
Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed OilA liquid plant wax, also known as Jojoba oil, pressed from the seeds of Simmondsia chinensis. These seeds can contain up to 50% of liquid wax. It is used as an occlusive moisturizer, emollient, and emulsifier.
Lecithin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
LecithinA humectant, emollient, and emulsifier best suited for water-in-oil emulsions. Lecithin can come from sunflowers, soy, and eggs. The downside to lecithin is that it causes an extra burden on the formula’s preservative because it is nutritious.
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) ButterA semi-solid, buttery fat extracted from the seeds of the Shea tree that is a wonderful occlusive and emollient ingredient mainly comprised of fatty acids. Shea butter contains a large amount of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds.
Beta Vulgaris (Beet) Root Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Beta Vulgaris (Beet) Root ExtractA purple-red extract with antioxidant activity that is obtained from red beetroot.
Hedychium Coronarium Root Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hedychium Coronarium Root Extract
Solanum Lycopersicum (Tomato) Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Solanum Lycopersicum (Tomato) Fruit ExtractA bright red extract obtained from tomato fruit. Its main bioactive compound is lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. It also contains other antioxidants like various phenolic acids and flavonoids.
Niacinamide
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Niacinamide

Also known as vitamin B3, this ingredient is a true superstar with confirmed moisturizing, anti-acne, hyperpigmentation, and antioxidant benefits. Two studies confirm its significant anti-wrinkle efficacy.

Squalane
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
SqualaneAn occlusive moisturizing and emollient compound that forms part of the skin’s sebum. The main source of squalane had always been shark liver. Now, however, it is manufactured synthetically or derived from plant oils, such as olive and peanut oil.
Urea
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
UreaUrea can be found in urine, skin, and other tissues as a degradation product of proteins. In concentrations below 5%, urea is humectant moisturizing. At concentrations above 10% it is keratolytic, that helps to break away old, flaking, and cracked skin.
Yeast Amino Acids
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Yeast Amino AcidsYeast amino acids are both essential and non-essential amino acids derived from yeast proteins. Some of the amino acids found in yeast are histidine, lysine, and cysteine. This ingredient is a humectant that moisturizes skin by attracting water.
Trehalose
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
TrehaloseA sweet-tasting saccharide that can be found in various yeasts and fungi and that is manufactured from starch for cosmetic purposes. It is one of the most popular sugars in skincare and is mainly used for its humectant properties.
Taurine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Taurine
Inositol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
InositolA humectant moisturizing, sugar-like compound that is present in all the cells of the body, but especially the brain. It is manufactured from sugar beets or carob tree pods for skincare purposes.
Betaine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
BetaineAn ingredient derived from the sucrose in sugar beets. It has a negative chemical charge and a positive chemical charge on the same molecule. This allows betaine to be hygroscopic or humectant and thus provide moisturization by drawing water to the skin.
Tocopheryl Acetate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Tocopheryl Acetate

An antioxidant derivative of tocopherol (vitamin E). It helps to protect cells from free radicals and UV damage through the conversion to active vitamin E in the skin. It is more stable than tocopherol.

Ascorbic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ascorbic Acid

Also known as vitamin C, this multi-benefit ingredient has proven anti-wrinkle, antioxidant, and anti-pigmentation efficacy. It degrades easily when exposed to air and light, so it requires proper packaging to maintain its stability.

Retinyl Palmitate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Retinyl PalmitateAn esterified form of retinol – it combines retinol and palmitic acid into one molecule. Retinyl palmitate is less irritating than retinol but also much less effective in its anti-aging and acne-reducing effects.
Potassium Lactate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Potassium Lactate
Ethylhexylglycerin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
EthylhexylglycerinA preservative booster derived from glycerin. It is commonly paired with other preservatives to improve their efficacy. Ethylhexylglycerin is also a humectant due to its chemical base of glycerin.
Lactic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Lactic AcidThe most popular AHA in skincare and less irritating than glycolic acid. It can be naturally found in sour milk. It is a humectant moisturizing, pH stabilizing, and gently exfoliating ingredient, able to soften dry, cracked, and peeling skin.
Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment FiltrateA biotechnological fermentation ingredient that is created by feeding radish root to Leuconostoc kimchii. It allegedly contains organic acids and a mixture of peptides known as bacteriocins – which have antimicrobial activity.
Polysilicone-11
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polysilicone-11A synthetic rubber-like substance of the silicone family that has no color or distinct scent. These are large molecules that cannot penetrate the skin but instead create a thin silky film on the skin's surface.
Disteardimonium Hectorite
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Disteardimonium HectoriteA clay ingredient that functions primarily as a viscosity controlling agent that thickens all types of formulas. Disteardimonium hectorite imparts a smooth, velvety feel, making it a luxurious addition to any formula.
Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Caprylyl/Capryl GlucosideA naturally-derived surfactant used for gentle cleansing and foam-boosting when combined with other surfactants.
Decyl Glucoside
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Decyl GlucosideA surfactant that can function as both a cleansing agent and emulsifier. As a cleansing agent, it is very mild on the skin. As an emulsifier, decyl glucoside will produce oil-in-water emulsions. It is naturally derived from vegetable oils and starch.
Propylene Carbonate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Propylene CarbonateA derivative of propylene glycol that is used most frequently as a solvent. Additionally, propylene carbonate serves as a viscosity controlling agent reducing the thickness of the products it is added to.
Caprylyl Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Caprylyl GlycolAn emollient that improves product spreadability and offers a silky feel on the skin. It also acts as a preservative booster that improves the efficacy of other preservatives. According to the manufacturer, it is also a humectant moisturizer.
Hexylene Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hexylene GlycolA multifunctional ingredient that is best known for its use as a solvent. It can dissolve both water-based ingredients and oils. For this reason, it can also function as an emulsifier, allowing oil and water ingredients to mix and remain stable.
Triethoxycaprylylsilane
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
TriethoxycaprylylsilaneA binding and coating ingredient that allows pigments like iron oxides and mica to disperse better in oily environments. This leads to more vibrant colors.
Chlorphenesin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
ChlorphenesinA preservative and broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent that protects products from a wide range of bacteria and fungi.
Phenoxyethanol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PhenoxyethanolThe most frequently used preservative in skincare. It is a clear, oil-like liquid synthetic substance that protects products from harmful bacteria and yeast, whilst still leaving skin microflora unharmed. It is confirmed by research to be harmless.
Iron Oxides (CI 77492)
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Iron Oxides (CI 77492)Also known as iron (III) oxide, this ingredient is a yellow-colored pigment that can either be derived from minerals or produced synthetically. It adds yellow tones to cosmetic products.